888 The American Naturalist. [October, 
Possibly most potent of all is the feeling that the association is far 
from being a representive of American science, and that it has degen- 
erated into an annual junketing party. It is certain that the interests 
of science have been often sacrificed to excursions which interrupt the 
sessions, and which should be postponed to their close. Then, too, criti- 
cisms are often heard that it is run asa close corporation, that nominat- 
ing boards are packed in order that certain persons may be put in office 
and that the expenses of the Association are far greater than they should 
be for the results achieved. There is, too, an inside history which can 
not be detailed which would explain a large portion of the indifference 
displayed. Before the Association can regain its influence it must 
undergo a complete transformation in its management and methods of 
administration. It must also present features. which will attract the 
better workers of the country. 
